Millie sustained a second degree tear during the delivery of her third child, but unfortunately the injury was mistaken for a first degree tear. She needed reconstructive surgery to repair the damage, which would not have been required had a correct diagnosis been made in the first place.
When Millie gave birth, she trusted the hospital to provide a good standard of care, having had no problems with previous labours.
The labour itself was uneventful and Millie gave birth to a healthy baby. Afterwards she was examined by a senior midwife who said she had sustained a first degree tear and therefore did not require any stitches. Millie and hew baby were allowed home later that day.
When she arrived home, however, she looked at the tear in the bath. She was worried that the perineal area did not look normal and suspected the injury required stitches. Millie mentioned this concern to the local midwife who made a routine visit two days later. She examined Millie but said the area was still very swollen, meaning it was too early to see if there was a problem.
One week later, Millie was seen at home by a different midwife. Again she asked to be examined, and this time the midwife agreed that Millie should have received stitches at the time of the birth. She was advised to ring the consultant for an appointment. Unfortunately there was nothing available for a number of weeks.
During this time Millie could do very little around the house and could not drive. By the time she saw the consultant the bleeding had stopped but she was still in a lot of discomfort. The consultant confirmed that she had suffered a second degree tear during the birth and that she should have received stitches shortly afterwards. Because of the delay in treatment, Mille required reconstructive surgery.
The operation was carried out one month later. This was a very stressful experience and caused Millie a great deal of pain. For the following weeks she was unable to do any household duties as just walking around was very difficult.
After contacting us to discuss her experience, we advised Millie that the midwife should have been able to accurately diagnose and repair her second degree tear. The failure to do so amounted to medical negligence, for which Millie deserved to be compensated.
We helped Millie make a claim for the pain and suffering she needlessly endured. She was awarded over £5,000 compensation.
(Details which might identify our client have been changed.)
If you, or your family member, has suffered a birth injury tear, please call us now for free, no obligation advice on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile click to call 01275 334030) or complete our Free Online Enquiry.